Richard “Dick” Parker

NEW PORTLAND – Richard “Dick” Parker, 80, passed away Oct. 28, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born Jan. 20, 1945.

Dick lived a life defined by quiet strength, kindness, and purpose. He was known for his gentle nature, sense of humor and wit, steady presence, and his unwavering determination in everything he did. Intelligent, humble, and endlessly capable, he could fix just about anything — and was always the first to lend a hand when someone needed it.

Raised in Madison, Dick proudly served his country, joining the US Air Force in 1963 serving three years in Germany during The Vietnam War. After returning to Maine, his dedication to service continued, joining the Maine Air National Guard. Later, he continued his service with the Army National Guard, serving as a medic during the Gulf War and Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield. He continued his service with the 112th Air Ambulance Company and retired as a First Sergeant with the 314th Army National Guard.

Over the years, Dick worked in many roles — game warden, police officer, teacher, woodsman, farmer, and a Master Registered Maine Guide and master of map and compass, sharing his knowledge with future guides, authoring the complete Maine Guide Instruction booklet still used today while serving as a professor at WCVTI (now WCCC in Calais). Each one of his professions reflects his deep respect for nature, community, and hard work. His curiosity and craftsmanship were matched only by his warmth and generosity.

Dick spent time living with, and learning from the Native American Tribes. He carried this connection with quiet pride and lived in a way that honored the land and people he loved. Dick stayed connected with nature at his favorite place, Chez Nous, on Spednic Lake, building several cabins for his family to enjoy living the “vie du bois.”

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; siblings, Emily and Richard, Cammy, and Bernard; children, Heidi and Chris Lawson, Serena and David Poland, Josh and Donna Parker, and Joel and Virginia Parker; stepchildren, Aaron, Andrew, and Julie; grandchildren, Jynessa, Theodore (TJ), Caleb, Bryan and Julia, Asa, Kelsey and Travis, Auston, Jeremy, Gwen, Kacey, Rylan, Noah, Ruby, Jonah, Wesley, Joelle, Cordelia, Cullen and Madeline; many nieces, nephews, extended family, and numerous close friends who will forever cherish his patience, humor, and gentle wisdom.

At the age of 38, Dick was grateful to connect with his birth sister, Mary Ann, and her children, Kathy, Tammy, Anne, and Donna, extending the circle of family he held so dear.

Dick’s life was a collection of stories, skills, and quiet moments that spoke volumes, living a full life that is difficult to summarize in a few words — a reminder that strength can be soft-spoken, and that a good life is built in acts of care and faith.

A graveside service will be held at 12 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at The Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, Section H. A catered Celebration of Life to follow at The White Duck, 2527 US Route 202, Winthrop from 1 – 6 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at http://www.laryfuneralhome.com.